September, 2005 I recently came across some interesting statements that made me stop and think… statements like: “Impatience is waiting in a hurry!” “Learning to forgive takes practice!” “Nothing is as hard to do gracefully as getting down off your high horse.” “Things to do today: 1) Pick yourself up 2) dust yourself off 3) Start over again.” “I have a photographic memory. Unfortunately, it only offers same-day service.” “Laughing helps; it’s like jogging on the inside.” “The Ten Commandments are NOT multiple choice.” Each of those statements contain some truth which could probably help us learn something. Another statement that challenged me when I read it says, “When you are through changing, your are through!!!!!” How true that is! We have come once again to a season of change with Autumn, the starting of school, and the resuming of Fall Church Ministries! You may also be going through other kinds of change in your life… like a new or different school, job, home, relationship, church, or any number of things. Maybe you have entered college for the first time, sent a son or daughter off to college (or kindergarten) for the first time, or maybe all of the kids are gone from home now. Maybe you’re a new father-in-law, mother-in-law, or new grandparent. You may even be going through an unexpected illness or the death of a loved one or a friend. Whatever the change, it is usually challenging and it requires faith and courage. One writers says, “Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves THE ONE who is leading.” The Bible says in Isaiah 43:1-3, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” (NIV) I like how the Message translation of the scriptures by Eugene Peterson says it, “Don’t be afraid, I’ve redeemed you. I’ve called your name. You’re mine. When you’re in over your head, I’ll be there with you. When you’re in rough waters, you will not go down. When you’re between a rock and a hard place, it won’t be a dead end… because I am God, your personal God; the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” Whatever ‘change’ you might be experiencing, my heart’s desire and prayer for you is that God’s power, strength, love and grace will be completely adequate as you keep trusting in Jesus. Remember, the Bible says that “with God all things are possible.” I pray that you will sense that kind of faith and confidence in your spirit today, and that you will allow the various ministries available to you and your family this fall help you in the process of being strong in the Lord. And, oh yes, wasn’t Vacation Bible School’s “Kingdom of the Son Prayer Safari” Awesome? The musical and drama presentation on Sunday, August 14th was Great! Thanks kids, for doing such a great job, and thanks, Melinda, Wilma, and ALL of the adult and teen staff, for loving kids enough to do the work of teaching children about the love of God and the power of prayer. As always, I look forward to seeing you for worship on Sunday each week to give glory, honor and praise to our mighty God.
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